Taskforce publishes bold plan to make air travel more accessible for disabled passengers

Report led by Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson sets out 19 key actions for aviation sector

A Government-backed expert group has today unveiled a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at transforming accessibility for disabled passengers travelling by air.

The Aviation Accessibility Task & Finish Group, established in November 2024 and chaired by Paralympian and disability campaigner Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, has proposed nineteen actions to improve the experience of disabled travellers at UK airports and on board aircraft.

The recommendations target all stages of the air travel journey, from booking to disembarkation. They include mandatory disability awareness training for all aviation personnel—ranging from airline crews and assistance providers to ground handlers and hospitality staff—designed with input from disabled people themselves.

Improved access to clear, consistent information is also at the heart of the report, including better guidance on how to book assistance, access in-terminal support services, and understand how mobility aids will be managed throughout the journey. The group also stresses the need for transparent, easy-to-navigate complaints procedures.

In a bid to strengthen oversight, the report encourages the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to enhance its existing airport accessibility framework. The regulator currently assesses UK airports annually, with most scoring in the ‘Good’ or ‘Very Good’ categories in this year’s report.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander welcomed the recommendations, stating: “Everyone should be able to travel with dignity and be respected at every stage of their journeys, including disabled passengers. These proposals will help clear the runway for greater accessibility in aviation. Now is the time for action and to make a real difference so that people can travel with confidence.”

Baroness Grey-Thompson praised the industry’s cooperation and said the report marks a “critical step” towards inclusive air travel: “We know there’s more work to be done, and I look forward to seeing these recommendations turned into action which truly puts accessibility at the heart of aviation.”

The report has been widely welcomed by industry leaders and disability advocates.

Sue Sharp, Deputy Chair of the Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC), said the actions have the potential to “deliver real improvement” and that continued momentum is vital.

Tim Alderslade, Chief Executive of Airlines UK, noted the growing demand for assistance and said airlines are “committed to removing barriers so that flying is accessible to all.”

AirportsUK Chief Executive Karen Dee said the recommendations would support the work already being done by airports to support passengers with additional needs.

The report also received praise from disability campaigners. Anthony Jennings, Disability Rights Advocate and Accessible Transport Advisor, emphasised the importance of lived experience in shaping the recommendations. “Implementation of the recommendations… will improve the real-world inclusive experience for disabled passengers and give them more confidence to fly,” he said.

David Leighton, Chief Executive of Aviation Services UK, said the report represents the “culmination of months of hard work” and praised the group’s collaborative approach under Baroness Grey-Thompson’s leadership.

The group will now continue to support the aviation sector in delivering on its recommendations and will report annually to the Department for Transport to track progress and maintain accountability.